Taoist Energy Practice and Inner Alchemy

Among the deeper branches of Qigong are the Taoist practices of inner cultivation, sometimes called inner alchemy (neidan). This is a brief, respectful introduction to the subject.

Taoist inner work treats the human being as a small universe in which three "treasures" — jing (essence), qi (energy) and shen (spirit) — can be conserved, refined and harmonised. The classical aim is health, longevity and a settled, clear mind; the methods are quiet, gradual and grounded in regulated breath and posture rather than effort.

Principles, not techniques

• Conserve before you cultivate. Stop the leaks of energy first — in attention, in sleep, in lifestyle.
• Stillness as the ground. Sitting and standing practice settle the system so that finer work becomes possible.
• Guidance matters. The deeper Taoist practices are traditionally transmitted in person.

From Qigong to power: a demonstration

How does quiet energy work connect to martial power? This film on the path from Qigong to fajing gives a sense of the continuum: